Gudi Padwa

The Hindus of Maharashtra and Goa celebrate their new year – Gudi Padwa on the first day of the Chaitra (Mid March – April). Early on the morning, people cladded in new clothes decorates their houses with colourful flowers and adorn the doorways and porch with different “rangoli” patterns. A decorated pole called “gudis” with a brass or silver vessel placed on the top is worshipped to honer Mother Earth’s bounty. Sweets and greetings are exchanged between families and relatives.